2008 Mercedes-Benz CL500

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL500 is a luxury coupe known for its elegant design, powerful engine, and advanced technology. While it provides a comfortable and refined driving experience, some owners have reported specific issues. The CL500 came standard with a 5.5-liter V8 engine producing 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission (7G-Tronic). Some owners appreciate its smooth ride and luxurious features, while others find the maintenance costs to be high and the technology somewhat complex for its age. Other engines and transmissions available were the CL550 (5.5L V8), CL600 (5.5L Turbo V12), CL63 AMG (6.2L V8), and CL65 AMG (6.0L Turbo V12), all with different performance and torque numbers and paired with different automatic transmissions.

Engine

5.5L V8 (M273)

• Camshaft Adjuster Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine may run rough, experience decreased power, or stall. The check engine light may illuminate with codes related to camshaft position or timing.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty camshaft adjuster solenoid (also known as a camshaft position sensor or variable valve timing solenoid).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Cover Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks around the valve covers, leading to a burning smell and potentially low oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

7G-Tronic (722.9)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during gear changes, particularly at low speeds. Can lead to rough shifts or a feeling of hesitation.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the torque converter. Flushing the transmission fluid might help in some cases, but is usually not a permanent fix.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, getting stuck in a gear, or complete failure to shift.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body. In some cases, individual solenoids within the valve body can be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Airmatic System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The car may sag on one or more corners, or the suspension may fail to raise or lower. Dashboard warning lights related to the Airmatic system will usually illuminate. Compressor failure is also common.
  • Solution: Diagnose and replace the faulty component. This could be an air strut, air spring, compressor, valve block, or relay.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+ per strut/corner, $500-$1500 for compressor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days of the car being parked.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the parasitic drain. Common culprits include faulty control modules (SAM units), seat control module, door lock actuators or the COMAND system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the cause.
  • Recalls: None Found
• COMAND System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The COMAND system (navigation, audio, climate control interface) may freeze, reboot intermittently, or fail completely.
  • Solution: Software updates, replacement of the COMAND unit, or repair of faulty wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors may not lock or unlock using the key fob or interior buttons. The door may make unusual noises when trying to lock or unlock.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may get stuck, make excessive noise, or fail to open or close properly.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the sunroof motor, tracks, or linkage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Mercedes-Benz CL500 is a luxurious vehicle that can be prone to several issues, particularly related to its air suspension, electrical system, and transmission. Engine problems are less common, but can occur. The cost of repairs can be significant, especially for suspension and transmission-related issues. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for signs of these problems and factor in the potential cost of repairs when considering a purchase.